Communication is one of the most important safety factors in gliding. Workshop participants found communication breakdowns as both a direct hazard and a cause of other operational risks.
Main concerns included:
- congested Common Traffic Advisory Frequency (CTAF) frequencies during busy periods
- inconsistent use of radio procedures
- limited awareness of gliding safety frequencies
- continued use of single-band radios in parts of the gliding fleet.
Participants noted that good soaring conditions and competitions can greatly increase radio workload. When multiple aerodromes share the same frequency, blocked or incomplete transmissions can make it harder for pilots to maintain traffic awareness.
Although aviation radio communications follow International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards, local communication practices can still create confusion in busy operating environments.
What you can do
You can assist in reducing communication risk by:
- using standard radio procedures
- regularly practising communication skills
- making sure local procedures clearly explain what they must expect during launch, circuit and recovery operations.
Briefings for visiting pilots can also help improve understanding of local operating practices.
What we have done
We continue to work with industry to improve communication practices and reduce the risk of aircraft conflict. This includes promoting standard radio procedures through:
- guidance
- education
- safety awareness activities.
We also support industry initiatives to improve safety at non-controlled aerodromes, where high traffic volumes, mixed aircraft operations and poor radio communications can increase risk.
We monitor communication hazards and occurrences through our surveillance and safety analysis activities to show trends and areas that may require further action.
We also work with industry and other stakeholders on emerging communication and electronic technologies that can improve traffic awareness and safety.